Genealogy is a powerful tool by which we can begin to understand the history of our ancestors. By tracing our genealogy, we have the opportunity to learn more about our countries of origin, the stories of our families, and how and why we ended up where we are today. But this opportunity to retrace the past is a privilege. For many African American families, particularly those whose ancestors were enslaved, there are immense difficulties presented in tracing back lineage. However, courthouse records have offered families an avenue to access records for the descendants of the enslaved and enslavers alike. To learn more about these court records and how these documents can be used as a key to the past, please join the New Jersey State Library for their latest upcoming webinar, “Property Rights and Wrongs – African-Americans at the Courthouse”.

On Friday, October 13th, you are invited to join The Legal Genealogist®, Judy Russell, as she enlightens audiences on the utilization of court records for the purposes of genealogy. The event will be held virtually from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. Although this event is free to attend, please do be aware that advanced registration is required. If you wish to attend, please be sure to register on Zoom, available here: Register – Zoom. With the help of some court documents, families will have the opportunity to access a treasure trove of knowledge regarding those who came before them. This afternoon of exploration will offer profound insights for those seeking to learn more about their past, and you will not want to miss this compelling conversation.

Judy G. Russell, The Legal Genealogist®, is a genealogist with a law degree who provides expert guidance through the murky territory where law and family history intersect. An internationally-known lecturer and award-winning writer, she holds credentials as a Certified Genealogist® and Certified Genealogical Lecturer℠ from the Board for Certification of Genealogists®. If you’d like to read more about Judy and her incredible work, you can read more on her blog, linked here: https://www.legalgenealogist.com.

This event is hosted by the New Jersey State Library, a destination for literature and learning in the Garden State. In addition to an extensive collection of in-person and online resources, the NJSL is also home to a number of educational events and opportunities to dive into a vast array of exciting topics. From genealogy to geography, history, science, and more, there’s something to be enjoyed by every kind of learner. If you’d like to read more about the NJSL and find out about upcoming events and webinars, you can check out their website, available here: NJSL – Home.

If you have any questions or would like to learn more prior to registering, please contact the New Jersey State Library at (609) 278-2640 for additional details. The keys to the past are waiting to be unlocked, so be certain to register today!

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